A lot of people love autumn for the beautiful colours and the cooler temperatures, but for runners, there’s another reason to love the season: cross-country running.

This year, Run Ottawa is partnering with the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club to produce the first ever Capital XC Challenge featuring the Jim Howe Memorial Cross Country Races, including series for university students, alumni and open teams. This two-day event also features the Eastern Ontario Elementary School Cross Country Championships and another new series for local high school students.

Course Information

The race courses will use the area around the Terry Fox Athletic Facility and the Mooney’s Bay Park, Stay tuned for detailed course maps. The surface will be varying between grass (including potential muddy sections), gravel trails, obstacles and track surfaces at the finish.

Not Wheelchair Racing Suitable – This race takes place on both paved, mud and grass surfaces, and has several curbs and obstacles along the course. These conditions make this event not suitable for wheelchair racing. Wheelchairs are not permitted.

Date and Start Time

High School XC Challenge

Friday October 131:30 p.m.

Eastern Ontario Elementary Schools Championships

Saturday October 1410:30 a.m.

Jim Howe Memorial Races

Saturday October 143:00 p.m.

Location

Terry Fox Athletic Facility 2960 Riverside DriveOttawa, ON K1V 8N4

Kids Run Ottawa

Schools and run clubs, please visit Kids Run Ottawa for a fun, active program designed for students 6-12 years old.